AP Art History
A captivating journey through the annals of art with AP Art History. This course offers a panoramic view of artistic expression from the dawn of humanity to the cutting-edge creations of today. Here’s what every AP student needs to know:
Course Overview
AP Art History is an expansive course that covers significant artistic movements, works, and artists from prehistory to the present. You’ll engage with historical texts, visual sources, and other evidence to craft and express well-reasoned historical arguments.
Skills Development
In AP Art History, you’ll develop critical skills, including:
- Source Evaluation: Assessing the credibility and relevance of primary and secondary sources.
- Analytical Reasoning: Interpreting claims, evidence, and reasoning within historical texts.
- Contextualization: Placing developments within the broader historical context.
- Argumentation: Constructing and supporting historical arguments in writing.
Equivalency and Prerequisites
- College Course Equivalent: Comparable to a two-semester introductory college course in art history.
- Recommended Prerequisites: None, making this course accessible to all students interested in exploring the world of art.
Exam Information
- Exam Date: Monday, May 6, 2024, at 12 PM Local Time.
- This is the scheduled date for the AP Art History Exam.
Course Units
The AP Art History curriculum is divided into ten chronological units:
Unit 1: Global Prehistory, 30,000–500 BCE
- Focus: Origins of human art across the globe during the stone ages.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 4%.
Unit 2: Ancient Mediterranean, 3500 BCE–300 CE
- Focus: Artistic works from ancient civilizations including Near East, Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 15%.
Unit 3: Early Europe and Colonial Americas, 200–1750 CE
- Focus: Evolution of art from the early middle ages through the mid-18th century.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 21%.
Unit 4: Later Europe and Americas, 1750–1980 CE
- Focus: Impact of societal changes on art during the modern period.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 21%.
Unit 5: Indigenous Americas, 1000 BCE–1980 CE
- Focus: Roots and evolution of indigenous American art.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 6%.
Unit 6: Africa, 1100–1980 CE
- Focus: Diversity of African art and its societal role.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 6%.
Unit 7: West and Central Asia, 500 BCE–1980 CE
- Focus: Artistic evolution in West and Central Asia.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 4%.
Unit 8: South, East, and Southeast Asia, 300 BCE–1980 CE
- Focus: Tradition of Asian art from prehistoric times to modern works.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 8%.
Unit 9: The Pacific, 700-1980 CE
- Focus: Art from the islands of the Pacific Ocean.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 4%.
Unit 10: Global Contemporary, 1980 CE to Present
- Focus: Modern art forms across the globe.
- Exam Weight: Approximately 11%.
Preparing for Historical Inquiry
To excel in AP Art History, immerse yourself in the study of artistic masterpieces, engage in discussions, and apply your knowledge to historical analysis. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey through the world of art! 
Why Take AP Art History?
Taking AP Art History can be a highly rewarding experience for students who are passionate about the visual arts and interested in understanding the historical context and cultural significance of art. Here are some reasons why you might consider enrolling in this course:
Broaden Cultural Knowledge:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of global artistic traditions and movements from prehistory to the present day.
Develop Analytical Skills:
- Learn to critically evaluate and interpret works of art, considering factors such as context, technique, and symbolism.
Enhance Visual Literacy:
- Improve your ability to analyze and appreciate visual information, which is increasingly important in our media-saturated world.
Prepare for College:
- The course provides a strong foundation for college-level art history studies and can potentially earn you college credit.
Cultivate Aesthetic Appreciation:
- Deepen your appreciation for the beauty and diversity of art across different cultures and time periods.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
- Discover the connections between art history and other disciplines such as history, literature, religion, and politics.
Improve Writing and Research Skills:
- Enhance your ability to conduct research, develop arguments, and express your ideas clearly in writing.
No Prerequisites Required:
- The course is accessible to all students, regardless of their background in art or history.
Career Opportunities:
- For those interested in careers related to art, culture, or heritage, AP Art History provides valuable foundational knowledge.
Personal Enrichment:
- Studying art history can be personally enriching, offering new perspectives and a deeper understanding of human creativity and expression.
By taking AP Art History, you’re not just learning about art; you’re gaining insights into the human experience and the role that art plays in shaping our world.
Preparing effectively for AP Art History involves a combination of strategies to enhance your understanding, critical thinking skills, and appreciation for art. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
Familiarize Yourself with the Course Content:
- Review the course outline and syllabus to understand the topics covered in each unit. Pay attention to the historical periods, artistic movements, and key artists.
Explore Artworks Independently:
- Visit museums, galleries, or online art collections to observe artworks firsthand. Take notes on your observations, including details like composition, style, and symbolism.
Read Art History Books and Articles:
- Supplement your class materials with additional readings. Look for books or scholarly articles related to specific artists, periods, or themes.
Practice Visual Analysis:
- Develop your ability to analyze artworks visually. Consider elements such as color, form, texture, and composition. Practice describing what you see and interpreting its meaning.
Learn About Art Movements and Styles:
- Research major art movements (e.g., Renaissance, Baroque, Romanticism) and their characteristics. Understand how artists responded to cultural, social, and political contexts.
Study Iconography and Symbolism:
- Explore the symbols and meanings behind artworks. Learn about religious, mythological, and allegorical references commonly found in art.
Use Flashcards for Key Terms and Concepts:
- Create flashcards with terms related to art history, including artist names, styles, and historical contexts. Regular review will reinforce your knowledge.
Participate in Class Discussions:
- Engage actively in class discussions. Share your insights, ask questions, and learn from your peers’ perspectives.
Practice Writing Essays:
- The AP Art History exam includes essay questions. Practice writing coherent essays that analyze artworks, discuss historical context, and support your arguments.
Take Advantage of Online Resources:
- Explore educational websites, podcasts, and video lectures related to art history. Platforms like Khan Academy and Smarthistory offer valuable content.
Review Past AP Exam Questions:
- Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in previous exams. Practice answering both multiple-choice and free-response questions.
Create a Study Schedule:
- Allocate time for reading, note-taking, visual analysis, and practice exams. Consistent study sessions will reinforce your understanding.
Remember that AP Art History is not just about memorizing facts; it’s about developing a deeper appreciation for art and understanding its cultural significance. Enjoy the journey of discovery!
